Dream Weekend Escapes

1. What is the weather like in Munich?

Munich has a temperate continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. The average annual temperature is 7.5 °C (45.5 °F). In July and August, the warmest months, the average temperature is 18 °C (64.4 °F), while in January and February, the coldest months, it is -1 °C (30.2 °F). Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with the most precipitation in May and June.

2. How do I get from the airport to the city center?

There are several ways to get from Munich Airport to the city center:

• By S-Bahn: The S-Bahn lines S1 and S8 run from the airport to the city center. The journey time is about 40 minutes.
• By taxi: The taxi ride from the airport to the city center takes about 45 minutes and costs about €60.
• By bus: The Lufthansa Airport Bus runs from the airport to the city center. The journey time is about 50 minutes.
• By car: The journey from the airport to the city center takes about 40 minutes. However, parking in the city center can be expensive.

3. Where can I eat well in Munich?

Munich has a wide variety of restaurants offering different cuisines. Some examples are:

• Bavarian cuisine: Augustiner Keller, Haxnbauer, Hofbräuhaus
• International cuisine: Dallmayr, Käfer Schänke, P1
• Vegetarian and vegan cuisine: Tian

4. What are the most important sights in Munich?

• Marienplatz: Marienplatz is the central square in Munich and houses the New Town Hall with the Glockenspiel and the Marian Column.
• Frauenkirche: The Frauenkirche is the Gothic main church of Munich and a landmark of the city.
• Schloss Nymphenburg: Schloss Nymphenburg is a magnificent Baroque palace with a beautiful garden.
• Deutsches Museum: The Deutsches Museum is the largest science and technology museum in the world.
• Englischer Garten: The Englischer Garten is one of the largest inner-city parks in the world and offers many opportunities for leisure activities.

5. What is the public transport network like in Munich?

Munich's public transport network is very well developed and includes underground trains, S-Bahn trains, trams and buses. The Münchner Verkehrsgesellschaft (MVG) operates the public transport network. Tickets can be bought from machines, at train stations and on buses.

6. Where can I stay in Munich?

Munich has a wide variety of hotels, hostels and apartments.

• Hotels: Search for hotels in Munich on a hotel booking website
• Hostels: Euro Youth Hotel, Wombats City Hostel Munich, The Tent Munich
• Apartments: Airbnb, Booking.com, HomeAway

7. How expensive is Munich?

Munich is a relatively expensive city. The cost of living has increased in recent years.

• Rent: Rents in Munich are high. A 70 m² apartment costs an average of €1,500 cold.
• Food: Food prices in Munich are average.
• Transport: Public transport prices in Munich are moderate.
• Restaurants: Restaurant prices vary greatly.

8. Do I need a visa for Munich?

Whether you need a visa for Munich depends on your nationality. Citizens of most EU countries do not need a visa. Citizens of other countries need a visa to enter Germany.

9. What is the mentality of the people of Munich?

The people of Munich are generally friendly and helpful. They are proud of their city and its traditions.

10. What can I do in Munich?

There are many things to do in Munich for leisure.

• Culture: Museums, theaters, concerts, operas
• Sports: Football, basketball, cycling, hiking
• Shopping: Department stores, boutiques, markets
• Food and drink: Restaurants, cafes, bars

Further Information:

• Michelin Guide Restaurants in Munich: https://guide.michelin.com/de/de/bayern/mnchen/restaurants?sort=distance
• Events in Munich: https://www.eventim.de/city/muenchen-11/

Dear travelers,

Welcome to a perfect weekend in Munich! Firstly, one weekend is not sufficient to explore all the beautiful and intriguing aspects of Munich. However, it's ample for making a first impression! As your interests and preferences vary greatly, I won't be able to plan everything for you.

Here are some tips:

a) If you require accommodation, it's advisable to book your hotel room weeks in advance. If you find a cheap flight, your planning sequence may change.

b) If you need a flight or train, it's better to book it weeks before your arrival.

c) If you require a rental car, it's best to book it prior to your arrival. Alternatively, consider bike rental or purchasing a Munich Card Single for public transport. For certain destinations, such as Neuschwanstein Castle or Oberschleißheim Castle and the Oberschleißheim Aircraft Shipyard (an outsourced area of the German Museum), a rental car is recommended. However, if these are not on your bucket list, you'll be well-served by biking or utilizing public transport in Munich. Tip: If you opt for a rental car, I recommend an electric car. This allows for free parking in many areas of Munich for the first two hours. Additionally, you can purchase the ticket via the MVV app -> ticket shop. Without an airport, it falls under zone M, while with an airport, it extends to zones M-6. You can specify the start date and duration (up to five days). For example, if you arrive at the airport/main station on Thursday and depart on Sunday, that's a four-day duration.

d) Travel alone or with a companion with whom you'll likely have a good time. This way, you can also enjoy the weekend.

e) Keep stress at bay. This way, you can fully relish the weekend.

f) I'll leave the evening program up to you, as interests vary greatly here. Munich offers something for everyone.

g) Utilize Google Maps or a similar app to navigate to your destinations. Don't forget your battery pack!

h) In my opinion, the best time to visit Munich is from May to September, and depending on the weather, April and October can also be delightful. Winters tend to be cold, damp, and dark early. However, indoor activities such as the Tollwood Festival or visiting the enchanting Christmas markets are also delightful. Museums, theaters, concerts, etc., are available all year round.

Wishing you a fantastic time in Munich!

In the given example, the arrival is on Thursday evening.

Thursday:

Check into the hotel. Inquire about breakfast timings. Tip: Request a quiet room away from the street noise and avoid rooms adjacent to areas like elevators or utility rooms. Set the alarm clock for 7:30 a.m.

The timings provided are recommendations. Feel free to tailor your pace and itinerary for the weekend according to your preferences.

Friday:

8:15 a.m. - Breakfast at the hotel.

9:30 a.m. - Start your day at Stachus. Take a leisurely stroll along the pedestrian zone towards Marienplatz / Rathaus. You can indulge in some shopping along the way.

11:00 a.m. - Town Hall / Marienplatz. Witness the daily chime at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m., and at 5 p.m. during the summer months.

11:45 a.m. - Odeonsplatz, one of my favorite spots in Munich. Consider a visit to the baroque church. Continue to the park (Hofgarten) to explore the Diana Temple. Are you a fan of dancing? Return later to dance here. Salsa: Wednesdays & Sundays from 8 p.m., Tango: Fridays from 8 p.m. Admission is free.

12:30 p.m. - English Garden South: Take a stroll in Europe's largest city park and visit the Monopteros for a breathtaking view. Relax and enjoy the romantic sunset.

1:00 p.m. - Lunch: Delight in Bavarian delicacies at the charming beer garden near the Chinese Tower.

4:00 p.m. - Viktualienmarkt: Wander through this bustling market and sample local specialties.

5-6 p.m. - Explore the old town, paying attention to details. Consider a visit to the renowned Asam Church nearby.

6:00 p.m. - Dinner: Experience Bavarian hospitality at the famous Hofbräuhaus. Reserve a table in advance.

8:00 p.m. - Clubs, bars, or cultural activities of your choice.

Saturday:

9:00 a.m. - Haus der Kunst: Explore the museum and its exhibitions.

11:00 a.m. - Eisbach wave, located next to Haus der Kunst: Watch the surfers ride the unique city wave.

12:30 p.m. - Lunch at your preferred spot.

2:00 p.m. - Pinakotheken: Immerse yourself in the world of art with a visit to the renowned Pinakotheken.

7:00 p.m. - Evening program: Enjoy dinner and then explore Munich's vibrant nightlife in the bars and clubs of the Glockenbachviertel or indulge in cultural activities.

Alternatively: After visiting the Pinakothek, grab a light bite in the area. There are plenty of options available. Later, return to the Pinakothek der Moderne for some salsa or bachata dancing (weather permitting).

Sunday:

9:00 a.m. - Olympic Park: Take a leisurely stroll around the lake, visit the Olympic Tower (>100m), and enjoy the panoramic view from the Olympiaberg.

12:00 p.m. - Nymphenburg Palace: Explore the magnificent palace and wander through the beautiful gardens.

2:00 p.m. - Deutsches Museum: Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of science and technology.

6:00 p.m. - Farewell to Munich: Check out of the hotel.

For convenient city travel, I recommend the CityTourCard Munich, which allows easy access to all public transport and often offers reduced admission to attractions.

Tip: Check in advance for events happening in Munich during your visit and book accordingly once your travel plans are confirmed.

I suggest allocating a full day for Neuschwanstein Castle, considering the travel time alone (approx. 2 hours by car, approx. 4 hours by train - each way) from Munich. Tip: Arrive early to minimize queue time; the castle typically opens its gates at 9:00 a.m. Check the website for details beforehand.

I hope you had an unforgettable weekend in my beloved Munich.

Warm regards,
Dream Weekend Escapes

Munich has many very attractions. So many and well distributed that even some locals don't know all of them. A selection of attractions popular with tourists if you want to put together your own destinations:

1. Marienplatz 
- Munich's central square is surrounded by historic buildings such as the New Town Hall and the Marian Column. The famous carillon takes place here, attracting tourists and locals every day.
- URL: [muenchen.de](https://www.muenchen.de/gehenswuerdigkeiten/orte/120347.html)

2. Frauenkirche 
- Munich's landmark is the largest church in the city and impresses with its Gothic architecture and the two towers that shape the skyline. A visit to the Frauenkirche offers insights into the religious history of the region.
- URL: [muenchen.de](https://www.muenchen.de/gehenswuerdigkeiten/orte/120345.html)

3. English Garden 
- This spacious park is an oasis of relaxation in the middle of the city and offers green meadows, idyllic lakes and shady walking paths. Particularly popular is the Monopteros, an ancient temple on a hill with a wonderful panoramic view.
- URL: [muenchen.de](https://www.muenchen.de/gehenswuerdigkeiten/orte/120337.html)

4. Nymphenburg Palace 
- This baroque castle was once the summer residence of the Bavarian rulers and impresses with magnificent facades, opulent interiors and an extensive castle park with canals and pavilions.
- URL: [schloss-nymphenburg.de](https://www.schloss-nymphenburg.de/deutsch/schloss-nymphenburg/)

5. German Museum 
- As one of the largest technology museums in the world, the German Museum offers a fascinating collection of exhibits from the fields of natural science and technology. Visitors can explore interactive exhibitions and carry out exciting experiments.
- URL: [deutsches-museum.de](https://www.deutsches-museum.de/)

6. Hofbräuhaus 
- This famous beer hall is a landmark of Bavarian beer culture and attracts visitors with traditional music, hearty food and of course fresh beer. A must for anyone who wants to experience the cozy atmosphere of Munich.
- URL: [hofbraeuhaus.de](https://www.hofbraeuhaus.de/)

7. Olympic Park 
- The site of the former Olympic Park offers a variety of leisure activities, including concerts, sporting events and leisure activities such as climbing and swimming. The Olympic Tower offers a spectacular view over the city. Tip: Enjoy the sunset together on the Olympiaberg. A lasting memory.
- URL: [olympiapark.de](https://www.olympiapark.de/)

8. Alte Pinakothek 
- At this renowned art museum, visitors can admire masterpieces of European painting, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens and Dürer. The collection includes works from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.
- URL: [pinakothek.de](https://www.pinakothek.de/alte-pinakothek)

9. New Town Hall 
- The New Town Hall on Marienplatz, built in the neo-Gothic style, is an imposing building with an 85 meter high tower from which you have a wonderful view over the city. The carillon takes place here every day and attracts visitors from all over the world.
- URL: [muenchen.de](https://www.muenchen.de/gehenswuerdigkeiten/orte/120346.html)

10. Pinakothek der Moderne 
- This museum houses an extensive collection of modern art, design, architecture and graphics. Visitors can admire works by artists such as Picasso, Kandinsky and Warhol and explore the diversity of contemporary art.
- URL: [pinakothek.de](https://www.pinakothek.de/pinakothek-der-moderne)

11. Viktualienmarkt 
- This colorful market in the heart of Munich offers a variety of fresh

Food, regional specialties and handicraft products. Visitors can enjoy Bavarian cuisine and experience the lively hustle and bustle of the market stalls.
- URL: [muenchen.de](https://www.muenchen.de/gehenswuerdigkeiten/orte/120348.html)

12. Munich Residence 
- The residence was once the seat of the Bavarian kings and impresses with magnificent palaces, opulent interiors and an impressive treasury museum. Visitors can experience the royal splendor of bygone times here.
- URL: [residenz-muenchen.de](https://www.residenz-muenchen.de/)

13. Glyptothek 
- In this museum, visitors can admire an extensive collection of ancient sculptures, including works from the Greek and Roman periods. The Glyptothek impresses with its impressive architecture and its artfully designed exhibition rooms.
- URL: [antike-am-koenigsplatz.mwn.de](https://www.antike-am-koenigsplatz.mwn.de/glyptothek.html)

14. State Museum of Egyptian Art 
     - This museum houses an impressive collection of Egyptian art and culture, including sculptures, mummies and funerary objects from different periods of Egyptian history. Visitors can discover the fascinating world of ancient Egypt here.
     - URL: [smaek.de](https://www.smaek.de/)

15. Asam Church 
     - The Asamkirche is one of the most impressive baroque churches in Munich and impresses with its rich furnishings, magnificent frescoes and artistic stucco work. A visit to the Asam Church offers insights into baroque art and architecture.
     - URL: [asamkirche.de](https://www.asamkirche.de/)

16. German Theater Munich 
     - This renowned theater offers a diverse program of drama, musical theater and dance. Visitors can enjoy high-quality performances in an impressive historical ambience.
     - URL: [deutsches-theater.de](https://www.deutsches-theater.de/)

17. Lenbachhaus 
     - This art museum houses an extensive collection of modern art, including works by the Blaue Reiter and Neue Sachlichkeit. Visitors can admire paintings by artists such as Kandinsky, Klee and Schiele.
     - URL: [lenbachhaus.de](https://www.lenbachhaus.de/)

18. Munich City Museum 
     - This museum offers insights into the history and culture of the city of Munich, from antiquity to the present. Visitors can explore historical artifacts, works of art and multimedia installations and experience the diversity of Munich's history.
     - URL: [muenchner-stadtmuseum.de](https://www.muenchner-stadtmuseum.de/)

19. Feldherrnhalle 
     - This impressive monument on Odeonsplatz commemorates the Bavarian war heroes and is a popular meeting place for tourists and locals. The magnificent hypostyle hall impresses with its impressive architecture and ornate details.
     - URL: [muenchen.de](https://www.muenchen.de/gehenswuerdigkeiten/orte/120352.html)

20. House of Art 
     - This renowned art museum offers a diverse collection of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures and installations. Visitors can admire works by international artists and emerging talents and experience the diversity of contemporary art. Tip: definitely have a coffee here in the Golden Bar.
     - URL: [hausderkunst.de](https://www.hausderkunst.de/)

21. Hellabrunn Zoo 
     - This zoological garden features a variety of animal species from around the world, including exotic birds, big cats and marine mammals. Visitors can spend a day in nature and discover the diversity of wildlife.
     - URL: [zoo-muenchen.de](https://www.zoo-muenchen.de/)

22. St. Peter's Church 
     - This historic church in the heart of Munich offers breathtaking views over the city from its tower. Here, visitors can discover the impressive architecture and rich history of the church.
     - URL: [kirche-st-peter-muenchen.de](https://www.kirche-st-peter-muenchen.de/)

23. Bavarian National Museum 
     - This museum offers an extensive collection of art, crafts and design from Bavaria and the world. Visitors can admire historical artifacts, works of art and crafts and discover the region's rich cultural history.
     - URL: [bayerisches-nationalmuseum.de](https://www.bayerisches-nationalmuseum.de/)

24. Schleißheim Castle 
     - This baroque palace ensemble offers visitors the opportunity to explore the magnificent palaces, gardens and parks. The castle also houses a museum with an extensive collection of works of art and historical artifacts.
     - URL: [schloss-schleissheim.de](https://www.schloss-schleissheim.de/)

25. State Museum of Ethnology 
     - This museum features a fascinating collection of ethnographic artifacts from around the world, including masks, sculptures and jewelry. Visitors can discover the diversity of cultures and traditions and get to know the world from a new perspective.
     - URL: [suedsee-museum.de](https://www.suedsee-museum.de/)

26. Lenbachplatz 
     - This lively square in the center of Munich offers a variety of shops, cafes and restaurants. Visitors can relax, shop and enjoy the city's lively atmosphere.
     - URL: [muenchen.de](https://www.muenchen.de/gehenswuerdigkeiten/orte/120363.html)

27. Glockenbachviertel 
     - This lively district in the center of Munich offers a variety of bars, clubs and restaurants. Visitors can experience the city's colorful nightlife and enjoy the variety of gastronomic offerings.
     - URL: [muenchen.de](https://www.muenchen.de/gehenswuerdigkeiten/orte/120355.html)

28. Jewish Museum Munich 
     - This museum offers insights into the history and culture of the Jewish community in Munich and Bavaria. Here, visitors can explore historical artifacts, documents and multimedia installations and discover the diversity of Jewish traditions.
     - URL: [juedisches-museum-muenchen.de](https://www.juedisches-museum-muenchen.de/)

29. Königsplatz 
     - This historic square in the center of Munich is surrounded by impressive museums and ancient buildings. Visitors can stroll here, admire the architecture and enjoy the city's cultural diversity.
     - URL: [muenchen.de](https://www.muenchen.de/gehenswuerdigkeiten/orte/120360.html)

30. Eisbachwelle 
     - This standing wave in the English Garden is a popular meeting place for surfers from all over the world. Visitors can watch the acrobatic tricks of the surfers and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere on the banks of the Eisbach. If the weather doesn't invite you to linger, the art museum "Haus der Kunst" next door is always worth a visit. Rounded off with a coffee in the Golden Bar in the Haus der Kunst - worth seeing!
     - URL: [eisbach-welle.de](https://www.eisbach-welle.de/)

31. German Theater 
     - This renowned theater offers a varied program of plays, musicals and comedy. Visitors can enjoy high-quality performances in an impressive historical ambience.
     - URL: [deutsches-theater.de](https://www.deutsches-theater.de/)

32. Maximilianeum 
     - This imposing building on the banks of the Isar is the seat of the Bavarian State Parliament and impresses with its neo-Gothic architecture and its wonderful view over the city. Visitors can take part in guided tours and learn about the political history of Bavaria.
     - URL: [bayern.landtag.de](https://www.bayern.landtag.de/maximilianeum/)

33. Bavarian National Theater 
     - This renowned opera house offers a variety of high-quality opera and ballet performances. Visitors can enjoy the great music and impressive productions and be enchanted by the magic of the opera.
     - URL: [staatstheater-am-gaertnerplatz.de](https://www.staatstheater-am-gaertnerplatz.de/)

34. Angel of Peace 
     - This imposing monument on the banks of the Isar commemorates the peace and reconciliation after the wars of the 19th century. Visitors can walk here, enjoy the view and listen to the sound of the fountain.
     - URL: [muenchen.de](https://www.muenchen.de/gehenswuerdigkeiten/orte/120351.html)

35. Beer Gardens 
     - Munich's beer gardens are famous for their cozy atmosphere, traditional cuisine and of course fresh beer. Visitors can sit here under shady trees, enjoy regional specialties and experience the hustle and bustle of the city.
     - URL: [muenchen.de](https://www.muenchen.de/freizeit/gastronomie/biergaerten.html)

36. Munich Art Area 
     - This district in the center of Munich is home to a variety of renowned museums, galleries and art academies. Visitors can admire works of art from all eras and styles and experience the diversity of the Munich art scene.
     - URL: [kunstareal.de](https://www.kunstareal.de/)

37. State Museum of Natural History 
     - This museum features a fascinating collection of natural artifacts including dinosaur skeletons, minerals and fossils. Visitors can explore the diversity of flora and fauna and discover the wonders of nature.
     - URL: [museum-muenchen.de](https://www.museum-muenchen.de/staats-museum-naturkunde/)

38. Neuschwanstein Castle 
     - The fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle, built by King Ludwig II, is one of the most famous castles in the world. Visitors can tour this architectural masterpiece and enjoy the romantic atmosphere and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
     - URL: [neuschwanstein.de](https://www.neuschwanstein.de/)

39. Siegestor ähnlich dem Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile in Paris, nur kleiner.
     - This impressive triumphal arch on Odeonsplatz commemorates Bavaria's victories in the wars of the 19th century. Visitors can stroll here, admire the impressive architecture and enjoy the historical significance of the monument. A very nice photo opportunity, especially in the evening with a view towards Odeonsplatz.
     - URL: [muenchen.de](https://www.muenchen.de/gehenswuerdigkeiten/orte/120350.html)

40. Villa Stucco 
     - This museum is dedicated to the life and work of the famous painter and sculptor Franz von Stuck. Visitors can admire his works and learn more about his life and artistic influences.
     - URL: [villastuck.de](https://www.villastuck.de/)

41. Old Peter 
     - The Old Peter is Munich's oldest parish church and impresses with its Romanesque architecture and its 91 meter high tower. Visitors can climb the tower here and enjoy breathtaking views over the city.
     - URL: [muenchen.de](https://www.muenchen.de/gehenswuerdigkeiten/orte/120338.html)

42. Bavaria Film City 
     - These film studios offer visitors insights behind the scenes of Germany's largest film and television studio. Visitors can explore film sets, take guided tours and feel like a real film star.
     - URL: [bavaria-film.de](https://www.bavaria-film.de/)

43. Nymphenburg Palace Park 
     - This extensive park is the ideal oasis of peace and relaxation and offers numerous walking paths, lakes and idyllic places to linger. Visitors can explore the magnificent gardens, pavilions and fountains and enjoy the beauty of nature.
     - URL: [schloss-nymphenburg.de](https://www.schloss-nymphenburg.de/deutsch/park-nymphenburg/)

44. BMW World and BMW Museum 
     - This museum and exhibition center offers insights into the history and innovations of the automobile manufacturer BMW. Visitors can admire historic vehicles, take part in interactive exhibitions and experience the future of mobility.
     - URL: [bmw-welt.com](https://www.bmw-welt.com/)

45. German Theater Munich 
     - This renowned theater offers a diverse program of drama, musical theater and dance. Visitors can enjoy high-quality performances in an impressive historical ambience.
     - URL: [deutsches-theater.de](https://www.deutsches-theater.de/)

46. Bavarian National Museum 
     - This museum offers an extensive collection of art, crafts and design from Bavaria and the world. Visitors can admire historical artifacts, works of art and crafts and discover the region's rich cultural history.
     - URL: [bayerisches-nationalmuseum.de](https://www.bayerisches-nationalmuseum.de/)

47. Bloodenburg Castle 
     - This medieval castle in western Munich offers visitors the opportunity to explore the magnificent interiors, gardens and idyllic castle park. The castle also houses a library and museum with an extensive collection of works of art and historical artifacts.
     - URL: [schloss-blutenburg.de](https://www.schloss-blutenburg.de/)

48. Michael Jackson Memorial 
     - This memorial in the Olympic Park commemorates the King of Pop and his legendary performances in Munich. Visitors can admire a plaque and sculpture of Michael Jackson and remember his music.
     - URL: [muenchen.de](https://www.muenchen.de/gehenswuerdigkeiten/orte/120359.html)

49. Karlsplatz (Stachus)  
     - This lively square in the center of Munich is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists. Visitors can shop here, relax in one of the numerous cafés and restaurants and experience the hustle and bustle of the city.
     - URL: [muenchen.de](https://www.muenchen.de/gehenswuerdigkeiten/orte/120357.html)

50. NS Documentation Center Munich 
     - The Nazi Documentation Center Munich is a memorial and museum that deals with the history of National Socialist rule in Munich and Bavaria. Visitors can attend exhibitions, documentaries and events to learn more about the darkest period in German history.
     - URL: [ns-dokuzentrum-muenchen.de](https://www.ns-dokuzentrum-muenchen.de/)

51. Oktoberfest  https://www.oktoberfest.de/

51. Events im Olympiapark https://www.olympiapark.de/de/veranstaltungen

52. Tollwood Festival https://www.tollwood.de/ Save the best for last. The Tollwood Festival is not a traditional folk festival as you might know from Oktoberfest. Unlike the Wiesn, there are no large beer tents, no amusement rides, no people getting heavily drunk and vomiting. At the Tollwood people act smarter and behave. It's alternative and independent, appealing to art enthusiasts, families, and singles alike. There's a stage with live music for free, an artistic supporting program, many small stalls, as well as a festival tent with live performances (for a fee) featuring well-known bands. Entry to the area is free, but tickets for the festival tent are usually quickly sold out online.